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A delegation led by Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan — described as one of the most beautiful museums in the world — and, after exploring its exhibitions and the Qur’an Hall, highly praised the content and artistic solutions of this cultural and educational complex established on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

During the visit, the model of Koy-Krylgan Kala in the Pre-Islamic exhibition left a deep impression on the delegation members. This monument, dating back to the 2nd–6th centuries, is significant not only as a settlement but also for having served as an observatory in its time.

The chess pieces discovered in Dalvarzintepa were also recognized as one of the most remarkable exhibits. These finds are considered among the oldest chess pieces in the world and are particularly notable for having been created nearly four centuries earlier than similar discoveries found in India.

In the First Renaissance exhibition, the guests were especially drawn to the letters sent by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to the rulers of the world at that time. Five copies of these letters are displayed, and their diplomatic approach and profound content attracted particular interest.

During the tour, calligrapher Habibulloh Solih presented the distinguished guest with a copy of the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) letter addressed to one of the Arab rulers, Mundhir ibn Sawa, as a commemorative gift.

In the Qur’an Hall — the heart of the Center — the delegation closely examined the priceless treasure of the Muslim world: the Uthman Mushaf, transcribed in the 7th century. This rare manuscript had been kept at the Muyi Muborak Madrasa under the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan from 1989 to 2025. On the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the manuscript was transferred to the Qur’an Hall of the Islamic Civilization Center on November 13, 2025. The guests also enjoyed a modern mapping show alongside viewing this sacred relic.

It was particularly emphasized that every aspect of the complex had been realized based on the initiative and direct attention of the Head of State.

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, stated:

“First of all, I am very pleased to be on an official visit to Uzbekistan. This is my first official visit since assuming office as Secretary-General, and I am very happy to have the opportunity to visit the Islamic Civilization Center. I understand that this Center has recently opened, and I would like to congratulate you on presenting a beautiful narrative of five different civilizations.

This is a wonderful way to introduce future generations to diverse civilizations, and the use of modern technologies, including immersive art, makes the storytelling very impressive. I have not seen such an approach before.

Once again, congratulations. I believe this Center will serve as an important symbolic landmark for Uzbekistan and Tashkent. It will also contribute to the development of tourism, particularly by attracting visitors interested in learning more about culture and heritage.

I would also like to commend the creation of the Islamic Civilization Center museum. It is an excellent addition to the historical, traditional, and cultural attractions of Uzbekistan.

A strong foundation is essential for the development of tourism, and the attention given to this is truly commendable.

Secondly, the facilitation of visas for more than 90 countries is another important indicator of the significance of tourism in the national economy.”

Members of the delegation also left their impressions in the Book of Honored Guests, noting: “I sincerely congratulate the leadership and people of Uzbekistan on the creation of such a remarkable museum. This place will endure for centuries and will serve as an important site for introducing future generations to the history of your country and the civilizations created by your ancestors.” They also highly praised the Center’s scientific, spiritual, and cultural significance.

At the conclusion of the visit, the Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, presented the distinguished guest with a facsimile copy of the Divan of Husayn Bayqara, transcribed in Herat in 1510, on behalf of the Center. The book includes ghazals in Turkic by the great Timurid ruler Husayn Bayqara, as well as four rare miniatures created by Kamoliddin Behzod.